Stage 2 – Program Application

Potential client with serious interest in acquiring an APAW Assistance Dog; awaiting preliminary approval from APAW. This stage takes about 2-3 hours for the client to complete; a response from APAW can be expected in 1-2 weeks from receipt.

1. A Cover Letter describing:

Why you wish to have an APAW Assistance Dog

Why a Poodle is the best breed for you

In what ways this dog will change your life

2. Program Application Form

3. Photo(s) showing you with your usual assistive device(s)

Optional: a dvd or link to an online video clip about you (if you are approved, in some cases a video can help shorten your time on the waiting list because it gives us better perspective of who you are and which dog/s may be suitable – this is
especially true for clients who are not able to visit our location easily)

Optional: photos showing your family, home/yard, hobbies, etc.

4. $25 Application Fee, made payable to American Poodles At Work

This fee is non-refundable and will be applied to your account, if it is determined that APAW can provide you with an assistance dog

Stage 3 – Medical Evaluation

Likely client, verifying medical need for Assistance Dog and demonstrating their decision is supported. At this stage a response from APAW can be expected in 1-2 weeks from receipt.

A. (One) letter from a doctor indicating their approval of your decision to get an assistance dog

B. (One) character reference from any professional who knows you well

3. Doctor’s Prescription for an Assistance Dog

*** Before progressing to Stage 4, clients must have an in-person interview in which they will meet a few of the Assistance Dogs in-training. This interview typically takes place at the APAW Canine Education Center, but under certain circumstances the interview can be conducted at the client’s home (there is a charge for in-home interviews). This interview can be scheduled at any point during Stages 1-3. **